The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering deploying thousands more troops to the Middle East as the military campaign against Iran enters its third week and shows signs of expanding.
According to sources, the strengthening of forces is aimed at providing more options for Mr. Donald Trump in the process of considering further steps. One of the options being discussed is to ensure the safety of oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a transport route accounting for about 20% of global oil production. This task mainly relies on the navy and air force, but may also include deploying troops to the Iranian coastal area.
Another option being considered is to deploy ground forces to Kharg Island, which processes about 90% of Iran's oil exports. US officials believe this is a risky option because Iran is capable of attacking this area with missiles and drones. The US has previously conducted airstrikes targeting military targets on the island and warned that it could expand to oil infrastructure.
The US administration is also discussing the possibility of deploying forces to control Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. Experts say this is a complex and potentially risky task, even for special forces.
A White House official said that there has been no decision to deploy ground forces, but Donald Trump still maintains all options. The campaign's objectives include destroying Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, neutralizing the navy, preventing authorized forces from destabilizing the region, and ensuring Iran does not possess nuclear weapons.
The discussions took place in the context of the US military continuing to attack Iran's navy, missile depots, drones and defense industry. The US Central Command said it had conducted more than 7,800 airstrikes and destroyed or damaged more than 120 Iranian ships.
Although ground forces have not been deployed, the US has suffered losses with 13 soldiers killed and about 200 injured in the conflict. Sending troops into Iran could pose political risks when public opinion in the country does not support this operation.
At the same time, the US is still considering its role in ensuring maritime safety in the Strait of Hormuz. Mr. Donald Trump once mentioned the possibility of escorting ships but also called on other countries to participate and did not rule out reducing its role if there is no support.
